Small Modular Nuclear Reactors 2023-07-04
2023-07-04
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from the need to establish a competitive process for selecting and implementing small modular nuclear reactors.
When does his Department plan to complete its competitive process for small modular nuclear reactor technologies?
Great British Nuclear will be holding a competition for small modular reactors, aiming to attract the best designs from domestic and international vendors. The Government's ambition is to select leading technologies by autumn, providing co-funding to any viable new technology.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not provide a specific timeline or completion date for the competitive process.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Members of the Welsh Affairs Committee visited the United States to discuss small modular reactors and their role in transitioning energy sources. The committee also noted that parts of north-east Wales are well-suited for SMRs.
Does the Minister agree that while north-west Wales has excellent scope for large-scale projects, parts of north-east Wales would be outstanding prospects for an SMR site, as well as capitalising on the region's amazing manufacturing and engineering capabilities?
The Government recognise support for nuclear power across north Wales. Great British Nuclear will work with the Government on access to potential sites for new nuclear projects, including SMRs. We will consult later this year on a proposed way forward for determining how new nuclear developments might be located.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not provide a clear agreement or disagreement regarding the suitability of north-east Wales for SMR sites.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The question stems from concerns about the UK's ability to compete internationally in the small modular reactor market. The MP highlights that international competitors are actively pursuing and securing orders, backed by their governments.
Does the Minister understand that while he is dithering around with his time-wasting international competition, those international competitors are out there in the market getting the orders and selling, backed to the hilt by their own Governments?
Rolls-Royce is a great British company. Up to £210 million was previously available from the advanced nuclear fund to Rolls-Royce SMR Ltd for developing their design. The first-stage selection process will attract the best designs and we are going three times faster than any comparable country.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not directly address concerns about competitiveness or delays in the UK's approach.
Response accuracy